Lên đồng

Lên đồng, also known as Hầu đồng or Chầu văn, is a complex ritual practice of spirit possession in Vietnamese folk religion, particularly associated with the Đạo Mẫu (Mother Goddess religion). It involves mediums becoming possessed by various deities and spirits, acting as conduits for these entities to communicate with the living. The practice is considered a form of spiritual healing, divination, and performance art.

Core Beliefs and Practices:

• The Deities: The deities invoked during lên đồng are primarily from the Đạo Mẫu pantheon, including the Mother Goddesses (Mẫu), various Saints (Thánh), Princes (Hoàng), and Princesses (Cô, Cậu). Each deity has a specific role, personality, and historical context.

• The Mediums (Thanh Đồng): These are individuals believed to have a spiritual connection to the deities, allowing them to be possessed. They undergo a rigorous training process, learning the songs, dances, and rituals associated with each deity.

• The Ritual (Lễ Hầu): The lễ hầu is a multi-stage performance featuring elaborate costumes, music (chầu văn), songs, and dances. The medium gradually enters a trance state, becoming possessed by successive deities. Each deity manifests distinct characteristics, including gestures, voice, and symbolic actions. The possessed medium may offer blessings, prophecies, or perform rituals aimed at healing and good fortune.

• Chầu văn music: A unique style of Vietnamese folk music, integral to the lên đồng ritual. It uses specific melodies and rhythms to invoke the deities and facilitate the medium's trance state.

• Offerings: Offerings of food, flowers, money, and other symbolic items are presented to the deities during the ritual.

Significance:

• Spiritual Healing and Well-being: Lên đồng is often sought for spiritual healing, resolving personal problems, and seeking blessings for good health and prosperity.

• Connection to Ancestors and Spirits: It reinforces the connection between the living and the spiritual realm, honoring ancestors and seeking guidance from deities.

• Preservation of Cultural Heritage: Lên đồng is recognized as an important aspect of Vietnamese cultural heritage, preserving traditional music, dance, costumes, and beliefs.

• Social Function: The ritual serves as a community gathering, strengthening social bonds and providing a platform for artistic expression.

Recent Developments:

In recent years, lên đồng has experienced a resurgence in popularity in Vietnam. It has also gained recognition from UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, further solidifying its cultural significance. While facing periods of suppression in the past, it is now recognized and practiced more openly.